PA 211
Last updated August 2026
When you do not know which Pennsylvania program to call, dial 2-1-1. A resource specialist answers day or night, every day, free and confidential. Prefer typing? Text your ZIP code to 898-211, or search the statewide directory at search.pa211.org.
PA 211 is run by the United Way of Pennsylvania through seven regional centers, so the person answering knows your area's agencies, not a national list. Help comes in 240 languages through interpretation.
It is a matchmaker, not a payer: 211 does not write checks, it knows which local agencies, churches, and funds near you have money and open intake this week. Referrals cover food, housing, utility help, digital access, and more.
Tell the specialist everything, not just the scariest bill. One call can line up a food pantry, a utility fund, and rent help at once. Write down each referral's name, number, and hours before hanging up, and call them the same day.
Use the right number for the right crisis: 988 for a suicidal or mental health crisis, 911 for danger happening now, 2-1-1 for finding and paying for practical help.
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Available to everyone in Pennsylvania; just dial 2-1-1
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
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Dial 2-1-1 from any Pennsylvania phone, any hour.
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Or text your ZIP code to 898-211, or search the directory yourself at search.pa211.org.
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Say where you live and everything going on. More detail means more referrals.
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Write down each referral's name, number, and hours.
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Call the referrals the same day; local funds open and close all the time.
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No luck? Call back next week; what has money changes constantly.
What the application looks like
Common questions
Is PA 211 free?
Yes: free, confidential, answered around the clock every day by one of seven regional centers, with help in 240 languages.
Can 211 pay my rent or utility bill?
No, it refers you to the local agencies and funds that can, and its specialists know which ones have money right now.
Can I text or search instead of calling?
Yes. Text your ZIP code to 898-211, or search the statewide directory at search.pa211.org.
Who answers when I call PA 211?
A trained resource specialist at one of seven regional centers run by the United Way of Pennsylvania, so they know your area's agencies, not a national list.
When should I call 988 instead?
For a suicidal or mental health crisis, call or text 988 any hour. Call 911 for immediate danger. Keep 2-1-1 for food, rent, and utility help.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
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